In anticipation of upcoming high tides and stormy surf, Santa Cruz State Beaches have taken preemptive measures to ensure public safety by closing several beach areas.

Santa Cruz State Beach announced on Tuesday the closure of Seacliff State Beach's lower day-use and former campground areas, as well as the Rio Del Mar Esplanade and Rio Del Mar Platform areas. This hard closure will take effect starting on Wednesday and will remain in place until Thursday, with a reevaluation to occur on Friday.

The closure comes in response to the National Weather Service's forecast, predicting the arrival of powerful waves ranging from 25 to 30 feet. To alert the community about the potential danger, the National Weather Service has issued a high surf warning that will come into effect on Thursday at 3 a.m. and last until Friday at 3 a.m.

Officials at Santa Cruz State Beaches have emphasized the importance of prioritizing public safety and have taken swift action to mitigate any potential risks. By implementing the hard closure, they aim to protect beachgoers from the dangerous conditions that the combination of high tides and storm surf can create.

Affected beach areas will undergo thorough assessment and monitoring during the closure period. Once the situation is deemed safe, the closure restrictions may be lifted. Individuals are advised to regularly check for updates from the Santa Cruz State Beaches management to stay informed about any changes in the closure status.

It is crucial for residents and visitors alike to exercise caution during this period of heightened surf and tides. The dynamic nature of the ocean can lead to unpredictable situations, posing significant risks to those who venture near or into the water. It is strongly recommended that individuals heed the warnings and stay away from the shoreline until conditions improve.

As safety remains the top priority, Santa Cruz State Beaches will continue to work closely with local authorities and keep the public informed of any further developments or changes. The closure of these beach areas will be lifted once conditions have sufficiently improved, ensuring that locals and tourists can enjoy the coastline with peace of mind.

For more information and updates on the closure status, individuals are encouraged to visit the Santa Cruz State Beaches official website or contact the park management directly.

Stay safe and adhere to all cautionary measures until the surf conditions have subsided, ensuring a pleasant and secure beach experience for all.